You’ve taken the first step by admitting that you’re weak and simply can’t resist temptation on your own. As I’ve often said, the person who is in the most danger morally and spiritually is the person who thinks they don’t need anyone to help them — including God.

Let me ask you a question: Do you think God cares when you give in to temptation and do wrong? Yes, He definitely does! The reason is because He loves you and knows that when you do something wrong you’ll end up hurting yourself. Sin will eventually destroy us, and God doesn’t want that to happen. The Bible warns, “You may be sure that your sin will find you out” (Numbers 32:23).

Don’t look on God as a harsh, cruel tyrant, gleefully waiting to punish you when you do wrong. See Him instead as your loving Heavenly Father, who loves you so much that He sent His Son into the world to give His life for you. Then realize that when you give in to temptation, you’ll be hurting your loving Heavenly Father — as well as yourself.

Begin by turning to Christ and asking Him to forgive your sins and come into your life. Then every morning, commit that day to God, and ask Him to help you turn your back on temptation and live instead for Christ. Temptations will come, but “God is faithful…. He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Read today’s devotional from Billy Graham:

February 19: Tame Your Tongue